How to save thousands on your divorce costs

All too often the costs escalate quickly if an amicable approach is not adopted by each party. When the negotiating gets entrenched with solicitors. Most charge an hourly rate, which could be anything between £200 and £600, depending on the firm. If you still don’t come to an agreement, it’s possible your case could escalate and end up in court. This means the judge will have to impose a settlement. And, if that’s the case, you could easily end up paying £15,000 each in legal fees.

It’s an eye-watering amount of money – and not a cost you want to be facing if you don’t need to as you prepare for a new life.

Worse, couples who may not be in a strong financial position can no longer claim financial support to help pay the legal costs of their divorce. That’s because the government has withdrawn legal aid for all forms of family law, unless one party has been a victim of domestic violence.

Stops you moving on

As you can see, divorce can become a costly outcome and it’s not surprising that many couples postpone the idea. They’re left with no choice (or so they think), which prevents them moving on with their lives and finding happiness.

However, this doesn’t have to be you – there’s another option, which could make your divorce cheaper than you first expected.

Cheaper, amicable alternative

Rather than instructing two solicitors – why not hire a divorce negotiator to help you reach an amicable settlement?

For a start, divorce negotiators charge far less than solicitors. Their average total fee is around £500, and it’s shared between you, not each . Constructive discussions and negotiations make the process quicker, easier and less stressful. We work with you both to help you come to a settlement that’s fair for everyone – rather than one party benefitting over the other.

Court fees

You’ll also have to factor in the court fee, you have to pay whether you actually appear in chambers or not. In 2016 this fee rose from £410 to £550, and there is a proposal to possibly increase it again to £750 in the near future.

Depending on your circumstances you may be exempt from payment of these court fees if you receive any of the following benefits:

Income Support

Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

Pension Credit guarantee credit

Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

Working Tax Credit but not in receipt of Child Tax Credit

You can find out if you’re eligible and learn more about the amicable alternative to divorce by getting in touch with Divorce Negotiator here.

For your convenience, we’re contactable 7 days a week from 9am – 9pm on 0800 177 7702 or 01256 630156. You can email us on info@divorcenegotiator.org.uk

How to save thousands on your divorce costs was last modified: May 23rd, 2018 by Carol Sullivan